Enterprise, Ala. – A fire that broke out at the Benny G. Adkins Veterans Home on Wednesday night has left a portion of the facility damaged, but authorities have confirmed that arson is not suspected. The fire, which originated in the attic of the facility, severely affected the roof and attic area. Investigators from the Alabama State Fire Marshal’s office are currently working to determine the exact cause of the blaze.
According to reports from the City of Enterprise and the local fire department, the fire was contained to the exterior roof in the rear of the building. However, as of Thursday afternoon, fire crews remained on the scene, working to fully extinguish the flames. The attic continued to smolder, producing a plume of white smoke visible for miles. Local authorities have assured residents and the public that no injuries have been reported in connection with the incident.
Sources close to the investigation have indicated that the fire began above the kitchen and mechanical area of the home, though the exact cause remains unclear. Enterprise Fire Chief Christopher Davis stated that the investigation is ongoing, and authorities are continuing to assess the damage and fire’s origin.
The fire required an extensive response from emergency services, with personnel from Coffee County, Geneva County, and the state joining forces to battle the blaze. According to Coffee County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) officials, crews faced significant challenges due to the complex construction design of the roof. This made it difficult to fully contain the fire in the early stages.
As a precautionary measure, approximately 91 residents were evacuated from the Benny G. Adkins Veterans Home on Wednesday night and transferred to a nearby nursing home in Enterprise. Officials from the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs have indicated that the evacuated veterans may eventually be relocated to other U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs facilities while repairs to the home are carried out.
Despite the challenges posed by the fire, local authorities remain confident that the residents of the facility are safe, and there have been no reports of injuries. The investigation into the cause of the fire continues, and fire crews are working diligently to ensure that the site is secure.
As of now, officials have not provided a timeline for when repairs will be completed or when the residents might return to the facility. However, state and local leaders are committed to ensuring the veterans are properly cared for during this challenging time.
